LSH Shedlines May 2016

Round-up of recent market news...

China beckons for Waitrose

Waitrose, via Alibaba’s Tmall e-commerce platform, has begun exporting niche British goods to China. Mark Williamson, Waitrose director, indicated that the aim is to turn this trade route into Waitrose’s largest international business over the coming five years. Read more

DHL in mood to reverse

DHL has launched a new model for returning goods to source, its ‘Reverse Logistics Maturity Model’. Developed in conjunction with Cranfield University and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Circular Economy 100 programme, it will assist businesses to develop customised product return schemes. Read more

M4 expansion no relief for ABP

The proposed £1bn M4 relief road has come under fire from Associated British Ports (ABP), who claim that the low height of the carriageway will prevent large ships from docking at Newport Docks. Read more

Lidl expansion plan

Lidl hopes to create up to 500 jobs at a new distribution centre near Exeter. Plans have been submitted in mind with a start date of June 2016, with operational readiness for September next year. Read more

Dalepak in line for MBO

Dalepak, the UK-based logistics company, is in the midst of an MBO. Backed by Sovereign Capital, David Tracey, former commercial director at Dreams, will be the chief executive. Read more

Developments on Birmingham Plan

The Birmingham Development Plan has been approved by the government, which is planned to deliver 745,000 sq m of office space, 350,000 sq m of retail and 300 hectares of employment land. Also submitted are plans for 51,000 new homes. Read more

Co-op to divest 300 further stores

Rothschild, the investment bank, has been appointed by the Co-op to help find buyers for 300 of its stores. This is further to the 86 properties that are close to being sold. The funds raised will be invested into price cuts and to upgrade the remaining portfolio. Read more

Aldi looking to be an Iforce

Aldi will launch its online offering through Iforce’s fulfillment service from their Corby hub. At launch, wine will be sold online with other non-food products coming on stream later this year. Read more

Aldi bolts to new distribution hub

Aldi has relocated 550 staff from Manchester to a new distribution centre in Bolton. The new £50m site is designed needed to help the retailer through its rapid growth. Read more